In 2003, I was a kid in the 3rd grade facing my worst nightmare: a dental check-up and cleaning. I didn't understand why I was afraid of the dentist, but maybe it was the unwelcoming atmosphere, the strange whirring noises, and the cold demeanor of the staff. However, this visit felt different. That’s when I met my new dental hygienist, who was warm and friendly. She took the time to explain each procedure and the tools she would use. That appointment inspired me to brush my teeth regularly and keep them looking clean and bright. When I talked to my mom about my future aspirations, I told her, “I want to clean teeth; I want to be a dental hygienist.” She encouraged me to work hard to achieve that goal. That's how my journey to a career in dental hygiene started. As I became more interested and the older I got, the more I noticed how folks in my rural community had irregular check-ups and neglected their teeth. From kids having silver teeth and constant fillings. Whereas adults had neglected their teeth's health, they got dentures and implants in their early 30s and 40s. It inspired me to become a dental hygienist who works in underserved areas and provides education on what keeps the mouth healthy and why you should do regular checkups. My passion lies within these communities because everyone deserves to walk around with better oral health and education which is still lacking in rural areas. I envision myself as a dental hygienist who can be more welcoming and warm towards everyone who sits in my chair. I realized that when speaking about dental health, many people, regardless of age, are insecure about their teeth and oral health. I want to be a dental hygienist who can improve that confidence and have them come to me without feeling judged about why they haven't been to the dental office. Although those are my aspirations and goals, I recognize the importance of financial preparedness. I was a dental hygiene student in 2024 and had to leave due to financial difficulties. It is important to prepare for this journey because dental hygiene school is akin to a full-time job that prepares you for the real world. You can have major life unexpected occurrences happen. The better financially prepared one is, the easier schooling is; you do not have the external stress factor about money weighing on you while in school. Advertently this eases the burden of studying and having a clear mine for exams, patients, and practicums. I chose this career because I believe that I would make a great dental hygienist, I want to give to underserved communities. Because having good oral hygiene should not feel like a luxury but a necessity. I want to make sure to properly educate and welcome patients into my chair without judgement. If chosen this scholarship eases financial stressors and let me thrive on this journey.